RAWALPINDI: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) workers and leaders gathered on Friday to commemorate the 17th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto at the site of her assassination in Liaquat Bagh. Despite the cold weather, a somber atmosphere prevailed as party activists and supporters arrived early in the morning to offer Fateha and pay their respects.
Two separate functions were held at the site by the PPP Workers Group, led by her close aide Naheed Khan, and the PPP city chapter. The day began with Quran Khwani, washing the site with rose water, lighting earthen lamps, and distributing charity food. Speakers paid homage to Benazir Bhutto, vowing to continue her mission of advocating for the voiceless and upholding the supremacy of parliament.
In the afternoon, the PPP Rawalpindi city chapter organized another function where leaders, including President’s spokesperson Amir Fida Paracha and PPP Punjab Vice President Rana Rafaqat Ali Khan, paid tribute to Benazir Bhutto. They highlighted her sacrifice for the supremacy of the constitution and democracy, recognizing her as a progressive leader not only in Islamic countries but globally.
The speakers emphasized that Benazir Bhutto’s struggle for democracy and the rights of the oppressed continues to inspire the majority of Pakistanis, who now look to Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari as a beacon of hope. They reiterated the PPP’s commitment to securing Pakistan’s nuclear assets and steering the country towards development under the leadership of Bilawal and Asif Ali Zardari.
Meanwhile, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) organized Quran Khwani in its offices nationwide. BISP staff paid tribute to Benazir Bhutto for her remarkable public service and sacrifices, reaffirming their commitment to her vision of women’s empowerment and enhancing the social security system in Pakistan.
As Pakistan remembers Benazir Bhutto, her legacy of courage, democracy, and social justice continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to uphold her ideals.